cyclical pattern

USAGE SUMMARY

"cyclical pattern" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a pattern that is constantly repeated or that returns to the same point. For example, "The stock market often follows a cyclical pattern, with prices going from high to low and then back up again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's a cyclical pattern.

The New York Times

Exhaustion can have a cyclical pattern in ME.

The Guardian

"What we're seeing is a normal cyclical pattern but not a secular change," he said.

The New York Times

If the pre-1992 cyclical pattern had held, one would have expected three million more.

The New York Times

Result: less bank credit, and a stronger cyclical pattern of demand.

The Economist

But there are reasons for doubting such a cyclical pattern still exists in the medium of television.

Independent

Because the F.B.I. has been keeping statistics only since November 1998, it cannot determine whether the increases are part of some cyclical pattern.

The New York Times

Investor sentiment also plays a part in this cyclical pattern, said Stuart Schweitzer, global markets strategist at J.P. Morgan Fleming, the asset management arm of J.P. Morgan Chase.

The New York Times

Under natural conditions, most of the environmental variables that influence dormancy are interrelated in a cyclical pattern that is either circadian or annual.

Encyclopedia Britannica

MAPS: La Nia's Influence on Climate: La Nia is a cyclical pattern of abnormally cool surface water in the eastern Pacific.

The New York Times

(In particular, they need not follow any cyclical pattern).

Pacific Journal of Mathematics for Industry

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cyclical pattern", ensure the context clearly indicates what elements are recurring and the time frame of the cycle for better understanding.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by specifying the duration or triggers of the "cyclical pattern". Unclear descriptions can lead to misunderstandings about the frequency and predictability of the pattern.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cyclical pattern" primarily functions as a noun phrase, describing a recurring or repeating sequence of events or phenomena. Ludwig shows numerous examples where it acts as the subject or object of a sentence, indicating its central role in conveying the concept of recurrence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cyclical pattern" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe recurring sequences or trends. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s widely used across various domains, including science, news, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, remember to clearly define the elements that repeat and the time frame involved to avoid ambiguity. While alternatives like "recurring cycle" or "periodic trend" exist, "cyclical pattern" maintains a versatile and widely understood meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

recurring cycle

Focuses on the repetition of the cycle rather than the overall pattern.

cyclical movement

Highlights the motion or progression through the cycle.

repeating sequence

Emphasizes the sequential nature of the elements within the pattern.

periodic trend

Highlights the predictable and time-based aspect of the pattern.

rhythmic recurrence

Implies a more structured and predictable return of elements.

oscillating rhythm

Suggests a back-and-forth movement or fluctuation within the pattern.

seasonal round

Specifically refers to patterns that are tied to the seasons.

regular repetition

Highlights the consistent and predictable nature of the repeated elements.

iterative process

Focuses on the step-by-step repetition of a procedure.

recurrent motif

Often used in arts or literature to describe a repeating theme or element.

FAQs

How can I use "cyclical pattern" in a sentence?

You can use "cyclical pattern" to describe phenomena that repeat over time. For example, "The economy often follows a "cyclical pattern" of boom and bust".

What are some alternatives to "cyclical pattern"?

Some alternatives include "recurring cycle", "repeating sequence", or "periodic trend". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "cyclical pattern" and "seasonal trend"?

While both imply repetition, "cyclical pattern" is a broader term that can apply to any repeating sequence, whereas "seasonal trend" specifically refers to patterns that occur with the change of seasons.

What fields usually show a cyclical pattern?

Fields like economics, meteorology, biology, and even fashion trends often exhibit a "cyclical pattern" due to recurring influences and behaviors.